The Naturena Clear-Out: High-Profile Stars Facing the Kaizer Chiefs Exit Door in June 2026
As the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season reaches its final stretch, the air at Naturena is thick with anticipation—not just for the final results on the pitch, but for the sweeping changes expected off it. Under the guidance of former head coach Nasreddine Nabi, Kaizer Chiefs have embarked on a mission to restore the club’s “Glamour Boys” status. However, a significant part of that mission involves trimming the squad of players who are either out of contract or no longer fit the tactical blueprint for the 2026/27 campaign.
With the June 30 deadline looming, several high-profile names are facing an uncertain future. From veteran goalkeepers to underperforming attackers, here is a look at the players who could be playing their final games in the famous Gold and Black.
The Goalkeeping Conundrum: Bruce Bvuma and Brandon Petersen
Perhaps the most discussed area of the squad is the goal-line. Both Bruce Bvuma and Brandon Petersen are reaching the end of their current deals on June 30, 2026.
Bvuma, a long-serving academy product, has had a rollercoaster season. While he enjoyed a period of dominance as the number-one choice, the arrival of Rwandan international Fiacre Ntwari and the persistent competition from Petersen have left his future in the balance. Reports suggest that while the club has a one-year extension option, they may look to bring in a new, younger shot-stopper to compete with Ntwari, potentially leaving Bvuma as a free agent.
Brandon Petersen finds himself in a similar boat. Despite being a reliable presence when called upon, his contract negotiations have reportedly stalled. Amakhosi legend Thabang Rooi recently noted that while the club is “comfortable” due to extension clauses, the lack of a definitive new deal for Petersen suggests that management is keeping their options open as they scout for fresh talent.
The Attack: The Sirino and Morris Question
When Kaizer Chiefs signed Gaston Sirino following his departure from Mamelodi Sundowns, it was seen as a masterstroke of experience and creativity. However, as of March 2026, the 35-year-old playmaker’s contract is set to expire. While Sirino has provided moments of magic, his age and high salary are significant factors in a club looking to lower its average squad age. Unless Sirino accepts a short-term, performance-based deal, he could be seeking a new home in the winter.
Similarly, Tashreeq Morris, who was brought in to provide depth in the striking department, has struggled for consistent game time. With the emergence of younger talents and the club’s desire to sign a marquee “Number 9” in the upcoming window, Morris is widely expected to be released to free up squad space and wage budget.
Midfield Stalwarts at a Crossroads
The midfield has been a area of constant experimentation for Coach Nabi. Two names currently under the spotlight are Nkosingiphile Ngcobo and Sibongiseni Mthethwa.
- Nkosingiphile “Mshini” Ngcobo: Once hailed as the future of the Chiefs’ midfield, injuries have hampered his progress. His current deal expires in June, and while he remains a fan favorite, the club’s technical team is reportedly weighing whether his fitness levels align with the high-intensity style Nabi demands.
- Sibongiseni Mthethwa: “Ox” joined with massive expectations as a defensive anchor, but he has occasionally found himself on the fringes of the starting XI this season. With rumors of interest from other PSL clubs and Chiefs’ pursuit of more versatile midfielders like Thabo Cele, Mthethwa could be used as a transfer chip or allowed to move on.
The End of an Era: Itumeleng Khune
No discussion about Chiefs departures is complete without mentioning the legendary Itumeleng Khune. Having signed what was widely termed his “final playing contract” last year, the 2025/26 season has largely seen Khune transition into a mentorship and ambassadorial role. While there is a standing offer for him to join the club’s technical or administrative structures, June 2026 officially marks the end of his journey as a registered player. His departure will truly signify the end of an era at Naturena.
Potential “Surprise” Departures
Beyond those with expiring contracts, several players with time left on their deals could be transfer-listed if the right offer comes along:
- Pule Mmodi: After a blistering start to his Chiefs career, Mmodi’s output has dipped. If the club secures a high-profile winger in the off-season, Mmodi might find himself surplus to requirements.
- Dillan Solomons: With the club heavily linked to new right-back targets, Solomons may seek a move elsewhere to ensure regular starting football.
Why the Overhaul is Necessary
The 2025/26 season has shown that while Chiefs are improving, they still lack the clinical edge and defensive consistency to topple the likes of Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns over a 30-game season. The “squad bloat” has often been cited as a reason for stagnancy. By clearing out players who have reached their ceiling or whose contracts no longer provide value, management can reinvest in “Nabi-type” players—younger, faster, and tactically flexible.
Summary Table: Contract Status at a Glance
| Player | Position | Contract End | Likely Outcome |
| Bruce Bvuma | Goalkeeper | June 2026 | Uncertain / Possible Exit |
| Gaston Sirino | Midfielder | June 2026 | Likely Release |
| Tashreeq Morris | Forward | June 2026 | Likely Release |
As the final whistle of the season approaches, the Kaizer Chiefs faithful should prepare for a very different-looking roster come August. The “Naturena Clear-Out” is no longer just a rumor; it is a necessary step in the club’s long walk back to glory.
About the Author
